The Toledo Botanical Garden is a benchmark against which similar gardens are measured throughout the country, and with good reason. This is considered to be one of the pioneering gardens because of its dramatically beautiful visual and natural presentation. Fragrant meadows of sunflowers and wildflowers, rose gardens, herb gardens and sharply manicured walkways make spending time here something special for the entire family. Also, the kids will especially love visiting the recreated pioneer garden which many consider to be one of the site's main attractions.
The whole family will go wild for the wildlife that you will encounter at the Toledo Zoo. The attraction has the distinction of being the country's most complete zoo, meaning that the animals that are kept here in their natural habitats most represent the many species found in the natural environment. See favorites like hippos, giraffes, polar bears, tigers, lions, monkeys and many more. There are also various seasonal events held here as well as an impressive summer concert series.
The Portage River in nearby Sandusky is a short 11-mile drive away from Toledo, but the extra effort to get there is worth it. Enjoy the best whitewater rafting adventure as well as kayaking and other water recreation at this popular destination.